Black Russian

Vicia faba

A rare variety originating in medieval eastern Europe (Kievan Rus'). Green pods with medium sized purple beans that become a deep purple to black colour when dry. Eaten fresh or dried, highly nutritious and protein-dense. Tender young leaves and white flowers with black markings are fragrant and flavourful - a unique addition to a fresh garden salad. Favas are the oldest bean (cultivated for over 10,000 years) and are popular world-wide. This Black Russian variety is very frost-tolerant, with luscious upright plants that grow 3-4 feet tall and requires trellising. 

Grown at Sweet Digz Farm - Zone 9a

Transitional Organic

Growing Instructions

Plant 1-2" deep, 2-4" spacing in rows 18" apart when soil is between 5 to 20 degrees C. Spring plantings are common, however in coastal areas with milder winter, they can be planted earlier (October to February) to avoid aphid damage. Feb planting ~ 130 days to fresh shelling, 160 days to dry.